Production of Mary Poppins
The Star Players will present the musical Mary Poppins from Oct. 10-12 at Venice Island Performing Arts Center, 7 Lock St. in Manayunk. Showtime is 7 p.m. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door. Group rates are available. Tickets are available on Venmo @TheStarplayers or at Holmesburg Recreation Center, 4500 Rhawn St. For more information, call director Bill Arthur at 215-685-8714, email [email protected] or visit the group’s Facebook page. ••
History programs
Poquessing Trail of History programming will continue with In the Light of Freedom: Lantern-Making Workshop and Historical Reenactment and Lantern Parade on Saturday, Oct. 18 from 5 to 7:30 p.m., at Byberry Friends Meeting, 3001 Byberry Road. The cost for the workshop is $5. Hot drinks will be provided for the historical reenactment and lantern parade. Next up will be What was Purvis Reading? The Books of a Great Abolitionist on Nov. 15 at 1 p.m. For more information, contact Jack McCarthy at [email protected] or 610-639-2164 or visit poquessingtrailofhistory.org ••
Neilson calls for long-term funding for public transit
After the National Transportation Safety Board urged the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority to act on safety recommendations to reduce the risk of future fire incidents on its Silverliner IV railcars, state Rep. Ed Neilson, chairman of the House Transportation Committee, made the following statement:
“While I’m thankful that the NTSB identified the problem posing risks to public safety and SEPTA is acting quickly to inspect and remove affected railcars, this is the exact reason that House Democrats fought for a long-term, comprehensive funding plan for public transit across the commonwealth.
“We passed bipartisan legislation multiple times in the House that would have provided long-term, sustainable funding for all mass transit systems and kept SEPTA from having to use its capital funds to operate. SEPTA’s capital fund should be for situations like this – to mitigate any public safety risk – not for daily operations.
“I am working closely with SEPTA, House Democratic leadership and Gov. Shapiro’s office to determine the next step in fixing this crisis, but if a long-term funding solution isn’t a part of the conversation, this will continue to happen to transit agencies across Pennsylvania.
“We need a long-term, comprehensive funding plan for transit agencies in all 67 counties, as well as for roads and bridges.” ••
Crafters and vendors wanted
Crafters and vendors are wanted for Faith Lutheran Church’s indoor Fall Festival scheduled for Sunday, Nov. 16, from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Tables are available for $10. Call Emma at 484-506-9617 for a spot. Faith Lutheran Church is at 4150 Woodhaven Road. ••
Art event Oct. 11-12 at SPIN
The nonprofit Artists for Artists Global is sponsoring its second inclusive art event as part of Philadelphia Open Studio Tours. The event will feature 11 Philadelphia artists on Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 11-12, from noon to 6 p.m., at SPIN Community & Fitness, 10980 Norcom Road. The public is invited.
A4Ag is a project of Networks for Training and Development.
This year’s featured artists are Derek Ayers, Jude Bigboy, Abigail Cornelia, Wendy Elliott Vandivier, Seb Genikov, Dominique London, Emilio Maldonado, Jesus Murillo, Amy Nemirow, Sean Mosley and Julie Woodard. They will share their work, demonstrate techniques and engage with visitors, who can also enjoy interactive workshops, live music and choir performances, film screenings, culinary demos and other hands-on experiences highlighting Philadelphia’s arts scene.
The weekend kicks off with a casual mixer at Cira Green, 129 S. 30th St., on Thursday, Oct. 9, from 6-8 p.m. Guests can enjoy skyline views and lawn games and connect with artists and art lovers ahead of the events at SPIN. The informal gathering is open to everyone.
“We are thrilled to support these incredible artists and give the public a chance to experience their creativity up close,” said Rosa McAllister, A4Ag co-founder. “This weekend is all about connecting, learning and celebrating the artists who make our city’s creative community so rich.”
Founded by McAllister and Michael Sean Degnan, Artists for Artists Global supports artists of all genres and locations, cultivates local and international artistic connections and provides resources and a spotlight on artists in “underserved” communities. The project hosts monthly virtual gatherings for artists to share, connect and grow together. For more information about how to get involved and support Artists for Artists Global, follow the nonprofit on Facebook, Instagram, Threads and LinkedIn. Learn more about the Philadelphia Open Studio Tours at https://www.cfeva.org/philaopenstudios. ••
Pray the rosary at St. Martha
St. Martha Catholic Church, 11301 Academy Road, will host its annual rosary rally on Saturday, Oct. 11, at noon. In case of rain, praying the rosary will move inside the church. ••
A day of visual storytelling
Bustleton Library, 10199 Bustleton Ave., will host a hyperlocal heritage scrapbooking program on Thursday, Oct. 16, at 10:10 a.m. Put your memories on the page with scissors, glue, photos and imagery. Collage and scrapbook materials will be provided but you are welcome to bring your own photos, drawings or paper. ••
Polka party at Polish Home
The Associated Polish Home, 9150 Academy Road, invites the public to its annual fall polka party on Sunday, Oct. 26, from 2-6 p.m. There will be musical entertainment by Dennis Polisky & The Maestro’s Men. The donation is $20. There will be a Polish kitchen and cash bar. For tickets and reservations, call John at 215-906-1825 or email [email protected]. ••
Craft/vendor fair at Delaire
Delaire Landing, 9355 State Road, will hold its 14th annual craft/vendor fair on Saturday, Oct. 25, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the recreation center. The day will include raffle baskets and refreshments. This year’s charity is the Gift of Life Donor Program. ••
Lecture on Bill Tilden
The Historical Society of Frankford (1507 Orthodox St.) will meet on Tuesday, Oct. 14. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Author Allen Hornblum will speak at 7:30 on The Greatest Athlete No One’s Ever Heard Of, about tennis star Bill Tilden. For more information, go to facebook.com/TheHistoricalSocietyofFrankford ••
Tour Frankford churches
The Historical Society of Frankford, in collaboration with Treasure Philly, will hold a walking tour of churches on Saturday, Oct. 18, beginning at 10 a.m. at the historical society at 1507 Orthodox St. The tour will stop at St. Mark’s Episcopal on Frankford Avenue, Word of Faith (the former Seventh United Presbyterian Church) at Orthodox and Leiper streets and Moses Holy Temple (the former Church of the New Jerusalem – Swedenborgian) at Paul and Unity streets. The pastors will open their buildings for visitation, allowing viewing of the building details and stained glass windows and a discussion of the past and current congregations’ histories. The rain date is Oct. 25. To register, email [email protected]. For more information, go to facebook.com/TheHistoricalSocietyofFrankford ••
Book club at Lawncrest Library
Lawncrest Library, 6098 Rising Sun Ave., will host Chills, Thrills, & Unicorns! Book Club on Saturday, Oct. 25, at 11 a.m.
The library is starting an art club for people 12 and older. All skill levels are welcome. Call Ms. Faith at 215-685-0549.
The library hosts LEAP after-school programs Mondays and Tuesdays from 3 to 6 p.m. and Wednesdays to Fridays from 3-5 p.m. The after-school leader offers homework help and fun activities such as stories, games, crafts, dance parties, puzzles, scavenger hunts and movies.
Every Thursday at 1:30 p.m., an English conversation group for adults meets. The group is for intermediate-advanced English speakers. ••
Senior singles club
A Senior Singles Breakfast Club will meet on Sunday, Oct. 12, at 10 a.m. at First Watch Restaurant, 805 Huntingdon Pike, in the Huntingdon Valley Shopping Center. Call 215-380-9144. ••
Holiday vendors wanted
St. Hubert, 7320 Torresdale Ave., will host its annual holiday vendor fair on Nov. 15 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tables are $30 for vendors. Admission is free for shoppers. To reserve a table, call 267-231-7367 or email [email protected]. ••
Christmas shopping
St. Hubert will hold a trip to the Pennsylvania Christmas + Gift Show at the Farm Show Complex in Harrisburg on Sunday, Dec. 7. A bus will depart St. Hubert at 8 a.m. and return about 6 p.m. The cost is $95. Call 267-231-7367 or email [email protected] ••
Soup, graveyard tours at All Saints’
On Saturday, Oct. 11, the All Saints’ Church History Committee will present its annual Soup Dinner and Graveyard Tour. All Saints’ is at 9601 Frankford Ave. The soups will be available in the Parish Hall from 2-5 p.m. There will be two scheduled graveyard tours, at 1 and 2:30 p.m., rain or shine. Attendees should wear comfortable shoes and appropriate outdoor gear. The free event is open to the community. Good-will donations will be accepted to help continue cemetery restorations. ••
Fatima Holy Hour for World Peace
The World Apostolate of Fatima is sponsoring a Fatima Holy Hour for World Peace on Monday, Oct. 13, at 7 p.m. at St. John Cantius Church, Thompson and Orthodox streets. All are welcome to participate in the closing devotions to Our Lady of Fatima. Devotions include procession with Fatima statue, rosary and benediction. ••
Indoor fall festival on Oct. 18
Prince of Peace Church, 6001 Colgate St. (at Comly Street), is having an indoor fall festival on Saturday, Oct. 18, from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. There will be a flea market, new and gently used clothing, toys, home decor and baked goods. Chances will be sold for gift baskets. Homemade soups and lunch will be available. All are welcome. ••
Bustleton Library book club
Bustleton Library, 10199 Bustleton Ave., will host a book club meeting on Thursday, Oct. 16, at 11 a.m. The group will discuss The Briar Club, by Kate Quinn. In 1950, a mysterious widow moves into Briarwood House, a boardinghouse in the heart of Washington, D.C., and draws her oddball collection of neighbors into unlikely friendship. A shocking act of violence tears apart the house. Copies of the book are available to borrow. ••
Pop-up event on marriage records
The Register of Wills office will hold a pop-up event on marriage records on Oct. 16, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the office of City Councilman Mike Driscoll, 7552 Frankford Ave. The event will help guests with applications for certified copies of marriage records and Real ID. Money orders or cashier checks can be made payable to “City of Philadelphia.” ••
Flu and vaccine shots
Representatives from Giant Pharmacy will offer flu and other vaccine shots at KleinLife, 10100 Jamison Ave., on Thursday, Oct. 16, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The public is invited to join with members. The flu and pneumonia shots are covered by Medicare Part B, while the shingles shots, Tdap and RSV vaccinations are covered by the Medicare Part D prescription plan. Bring your Medicare, pharmacy and other insurance cards. To reserve an appointment, call 215-698-7300, Ext. 193. ••
Schedule a mammogram
Fox Chase Cancer Center will hold mobile mammography screenings on Tuesday, Oct. 14, at 9 a.m. at the district office of state Rep. Jared Solomon, 6434 Castor Ave. You are eligible for a mammogram if you are 40 or older and due for an annual screening; age 35-39 baseline screening or as recommended; prescription from your doctor; no new breast problems; no breast implants; and nor pregnant or breast feeding. To schedule an appointment, email [email protected]. ••
Meeting in Fox Chase on Oct. 8
The Fox Chase Town Watch and Fox Chase Civic Association meet on the second Wednesday of the month at 7:30 p.m. at American Legion Loudenslager Post 366, 7976 Oxford Ave. The group will meet on the following dates: Oct. 8 and Nov. 12. ••
Parkinson’s support group at Jeanes
Temple University Hospital – Jeanes Campus, 7604 Central Ave., will host meetings of a Parkinson’s disease support group in its Cheltenham Friends Meetinghouse. The meetings, from 5-6 p.m. on the second Wednesday of every other month, are open to people diagnosed with Parkinson’s and their families, and are led by nurse practitioner June Ro. The schedule, with guest speakers, is Oct. 8 (social worker Luisa Enriquez) and Dec. 10 (Dr. Teodora Schellato, urologist, and physical therapist Sonia Williams-Joseph).
To register, contact Ro at 215-707-2619 or [email protected]. ••
Tartaglione senior expos
State Sen. Tina Tartaglione will hold three upcoming senior expos, all on Fridays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Oct. 10 at Cohox Recreation Center, 2901 Cedar St.; Oct. 17 at Mayfair Community Center, 2990 St. Vincent St; and Oct. 24 at Juniata Boys and Girls Club, 1225 E. Cayuga St. Call 215-533-0440. ••
Free computer session
Holy Family University will host Demystifying Windows 10 to Windows 11 on Wednesday, Oct. 8, from 7-8:30 p.m. in Room 412 of its Education and Technology Center building, 9801 Frankford Ave. The event is free. Register at www.holyfamily.edu/familycenter, by calling 267-341-3305 or by emailing [email protected]. ••
Painting fundraiser for Alzheimer’s
The Philadelphia Protestant Home, 6401 Martins Mill Road, will host a fundraiser for the Alzheimer’s Association in its social hall on Thursday, Oct. 16, at 6 p.m. Entry to Paint 2 You is $25 per person, with all materials provided. It will be a BYOB/wine and snacks event. Register by calling Angie Hernandez at 215-697-8409. ••
Trip to the Tropicana
Holy Innocents will hold a Christmas casino trip to the Tropicana on Thursday, Dec. 4. A bus will depart from L Street and Hunting Park Avenue at 10 a.m. The cost is $125 and includes transportation, $25 slot play, a ticket to Dance to the Holidays at 3:30 p.m. and a full hot and cold buffet. The bus will depart the Tropicana at 5:30 p.m. To reserve your seat, call Cindy at 215-535-2740. ••
Preschool storytime and play
Katharine Drexel Library, 11099 Knights Road, will host Preschool Storytime & Play on Thursdays, Oct. 9 and 23 and Nov. 6 and 20 at 10:30 a.m. There will be fun stories and songs followed by creative play. For children ages 3-5 accompanied by an adult. Call 215-685-9383. ••
New playground being built
The public is invited to attend the construction of a playground at Bustleton Learning Center, 6600 Bustleton Ave., on Saturday, Oct. 11. The work begins at 8:30 a.m., with a ribbon cutting at 2:30 p.m. The Maryland-based nonprofit Kaboom will perform the work, with funding provided by Vanguard’s Strong Start for Kids program. Bustleton Learning Center is owned by Aliya Johnson-Roberts. ••
Events at Ryerss
Ryerss Museum & Library, 7370 Central Ave., in Burholme Park, has the following upcoming events:
Fridays, Oct. 10 and 24 and Nov. 14, 1-3 p.m., Fibercraft Friends
Saturdays, Oct. 11 and Nov. 8 and 22, 10:30 a.m., Storytime
Saturday, Oct. 11, 1 p.m., Quilting Workshop
Fridays, Oct. 17 and Nov. 21, 1-3 p.m., Book Club
Saturday, Oct. 25, noon to 3 p.m., Halloween Party
Saturday, Nov. 8, 1 p.m., presentation by author and historian Tom Keels
Saturday, Dec. 13, Victorian Christmas Open house
To register or for more information, call 215-685-0599 or visit https://robertryerss.org ••
October in Tacony
There will be a number of upcoming events in Tacony in October. Here is the schedule:
Oct. 8, 5 p.m.: Pumpkin carving, Tacony LAB, 6918 Torresdale Ave.
Oct. 18, 6 p.m.: Tacony Ghost Tour, meet in front of Tacony Library, 6742 Torresdale Ave.
Oct. 20, 4 p.m.: costume making, Tacony Library, 6742 Torresdale Ave.
Oct. 30, 6 p.m.: Painting With a Treat, Tacony LAB, 6918 Torresdale Ave. ••
Upcoming operas
Amici Opera Company will present a number of upcoming operas.
Primo Riccitelli’s I Compagnacci will be presented on Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 11-12, at 3 p.m. at United Methodist Church of the Redeemer, 1128 Cottman Ave.
Verdi’s Il Corsaro will be staged on Sunday, Oct. 19, at 2:30 p.m. at Dock Woods, 275 Dock Drive, Lansdale; on Sunday, Oct. 26, at 4 p.m. at Community Presbyterian Church, 1501 W. Brigantine Ave., Brigantine (cost $30); on Tuesday, Oct. 28, at 6 p.m. at La Piovra, 7901 High School Road, Elkins Park ($54.95 for dinner and show, reservations at 215-606-3800); and on Saturday, Nov. 1, at 3 p.m. at United Methodist Church of the Redeemer.
Mascagni’s Cavalleria Rusticana will be performed with dinner on Saturday, Oct. 25, at High Note Caffe, 13th and Tasker streets. Arrive by 6 p.m., with the opera starting at 7. The cost is $75 per person (tax and tip included). There will be a cash bar. For reservations, visit highnotecaffe.com.
Call 215-224-0257 or visit the Amici Opera Company page on Facebook. ••
Shredding, e-cycling
State Reps. Sean Dougherty, Anthony Bellmon and Jared Solomon will hold a shredding and e-cycling event on Saturday, Oct. 11, from 9 a.m. to noon, at the Roosevelt Mall. Call 215-331-2600. ••
Magic show, buffet lunch trip
The Marlyn Chakov Fein Chapter, Fox Chase Cancer Center is going to the Magic & Wonder Dinner Theater in Lancaster on Oct. 9. The price is $145 per person and includes round trip motorcoach transportation, buffet lunch at the theater and the “Imaginarium” Magic & Wonder show, featuring illusionist Brett Myers, winner of the Merlin award for Best Magic and Variety. The bus leaves from 604 Cottman Ave., Cheltenham (near the intersection of Church and Township Line roads) and departure is 9:30 a.m. Return time is about 6:30 p.m. For reservations, call 267-265-5348. The event supports cancer research and compassionate patient care at Fox Chase Cancer Center. ••
Major honors for Tacony Academy Charter and CEO
American Paradigm Schools announced two distinguished honors from the Pennsylvania Coalition of Public Charter Schools. Ashley Redfearn, CEO of APS, received the prestigious Legacy Award, and Tacony Academy Charter School, part of the APS network, earned recognition as Charter School of the Year.
The Legacy Award celebrates Redfearn’s leadership and commitment to advancing charter education across Pennsylvania, and Tacony Academy is lauded for its exceptional academic performance, innovative programming and strong community engagement.
This year, TACS is celebrated for its groundbreaking Medical and Technical Skills Institute, which provides students with industry certifications in high-demand fields. These opportunities directly address the region’s workforce needs while preparing graduates for both college and career pathways. In addition, TACS was nationally recognized for achieving Level 3 status on the NFHS Honor Roll, becoming the first high school in the country to do so. Its middle school also earned Level 1 status, underscoring comprehensive excellence in athletics across all grade levels. TACS is one of only 40 schools nationwide awarded the Quality Program Assessment Award for athletics.
“These honors represent the heart of our mission at APS — to empower students with opportunity, innovation and connection to their communities,” Redfearn said. “I am humbled to be recognized personally, and I am incredibly proud of Tacony Academy for showing what is possible when a school and its community thrive together.”
Both awards will be presented during the PCPCS conference, “20 Years of Choice: Honoring Innovation, Celebrating Resilience and Inspiring a Bright Future,” on Oct. 19 at the Lehigh Valley School of Performing Arts in Bethlehem. ••
Charity bingo
Women’s Cancer Research Association will hold its annual bingo on Thursday, Oct. 16, at Brookside Manor, 50 Bustleton Pike, in Feasterville. Doors open at 11:30 a.m. Bingo starts at noon. The cost is $55, which includes a luncheon, 10 bingo games and daubers. Raffles will be sold separately. All proceeds support local cancer research. For reservations, email [email protected]. ••
Meet a dragon at Holmesburg Library
Holmesburg Library, 7810 Frankford Ave., will present Dragon Tales, a school-age program sponsored by Friends of Holmesburg Library, on Monday, Oct. 27, at 4:30 p.m. Meet George the Bearded Dragon and hear tales of his cold-blooded life at Pennypack Environmental Center. Meet some of his favorite foods and maybe take a taste for yourself. ••
Bingo on Nov. 1
Gift of Giving will host cash bingo on Saturday, Nov. 1, from 6:30 to 10:30 p.m. at St. Dominic’s Marian Hall, 8532 Frankford Ave. Doors open at 6 p.m. Tickets cost $35 and include beer, wine, soda and dessert. BYO drinks and snacks. Call Tom at 267-312-5225 for tickets. ••
Cuts -n- Cars Nov. 9 at Oxley
William D. Oxley Post 133, 7900 Torresdale Ave. (at Decatur Street), will host Cuts -n- Cars on Sunday, Nov. 9. A car show will be on the avenue from noon to 5 p.m. There will be a cut-a-thon from 3-7 p.m., offering free haircuts for all veterans. Veterans are welcome to stay for a free soda and slice of pizza or soft pretzel. City Councilman Mike Driscoll and state Rep. Pat Gallagher are co-sponsoring the event, which will include a food truck. For more information, call Kay Brookes at 267-255-5234. ••
Yard sale on Oct. 18
The Villages at Pine Valley yard sale will take place on Saturday, Oct. 18, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. The rain date is Sunday, Oct. 19. The community address is 900 Pine Valley Blvd. (between Verree Road and Pine Road). Use the Verree Road entrance, near CORA Services, or the Pine Road entrance, near Shady Lane. Parking is available at the clubhouse. ••
Bingo at Loudenslager
Corp. John Loudenslager American Legion Post 366, 7976 Oxford Ave., is offering community bingo every second and fourth Friday. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., and games begin at 7:30. There are dollar hot dogs and free popcorn. ••
Thanksgiving parade scheduled
The 48th Mayfair-Holmesburg Thanksgiving Parade will take place on Sunday, Nov. 23, from noon to 3 p.m. For more information , visit thanksgivingparade.org. ••
LF class of ‘75 reunion
Little Flower Class of 1975 will hold a 50-year reunion on Sunday, Oct. 26, at Bustleton Manor, 50 Bustleton Pike, in Feasterville. Mass will be at noon, followed by the reunion from 1-5 p.m. The cost is $75, including a buffet meal, soft drinks, coffee, DJ and a donation to an LF scholarship fund in the Class of 1975’s name. There will be a cash bar. To buy a ticket, visit https://secure.acceptiva.com/?cst=GiTZoy. For more information, go to “Little Flower Class of ‘75 – Reunion Planning” on Facebook. ••
Sign up for free newsletter
The Northeast Times has returned to its original website, northeasttimes.com. The website includes news, sports, opinion, crime, entertainment and features, and a link to sign up for a free newsletter that will bring stories to your inbox. The site includes an option to read the current issue in “flipbook” style. Readers are also encouraged to follow the newspaper on Bluesky, Facebook, Instagram and on X @NETimesOfficial. In addition to the Times being delivered to homes, the paper can be found at these spots: https://northeasttimes.com/pickup-locations/. ••
Curfew, underage drinking
Curfew in Philadelphia is 9:30 p.m. for anyone 13 and under and 10 p.m. for those ages 14-17. If police pick up someone for a curfew violation in the Northeast, the young person will be taken home, to the Community Evening Resource Center at 4704 Leiper St. in Frankford or to the 2nd, 7th, 8th or 15th police districts. The penalty for a curfew violation can be up to $300.
Under state law, underage drinking is a summary offense with a $500 fine for the first violation. Anyone receiving a citation for underage drinking can be asked about it on applications for jobs, college applications and appointments to military service academies. ••
Chair yoga at Bustleton Library
Bustleton Library, 10199 Bustleton Ave., hosts chair yoga on Wednesdays at 10:10 a.m. The class is presented by Yoga4Philly and sponsored by Friends of Bustleton Library. ••
English classes at Bustleton Library
Bustleton Library, 10199 Bustleton Ave., hosts free intermediate English classes on Mondays and Tuesdays from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. To register, go to remind.com/join/dbhd4e or call 215-685-0472. ••
Ethnic food fair in November
St. Stephen’s Orthodox Cathedral, 8598 Verree Road, will host an ethnic food fair on Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 8-9, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. There will be homemade pierogies, halupki and other ethnic foods from around the world. ••
Jeanes farm stand is open
The Temple University Hospital — Jeanes Campus farm stand, 7600 Central Ave., is open Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. through October. The stand is located next to Parking Lot C. Call 215-728-2131 or email [email protected] ••
Activities at Rosemary Montagno Senior Center
The Rosemary Montagno Senior Center, 12601 Townsend Road, has the following schedule: Monday – free time activities, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Tuesday – bingo, 10 a.m. to 2:45 p.m.; Wednesday – pinochle and mahjong, 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., ceramics, 10 a.m. to noon; Thursday – line dancing, 10:30 a.m. to noon; Friday – Pinochle 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. ••
Join St. Anselm Seniors
St. Anselm has started a senior citizen club that meets most Thursdays from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Our Lady of Victory Hall, 12650 Dunksferry Road. The club is open to men and women 55 and older, and members don’t have to be St. Anselm parishioners. For more information, visit the St. Anselm Senior Citizens Club page on Facebook. ••
VFW looking for members
Bustleton-Somerton/CTR1 Michael J. Strange VFW Post 6617 meets on the third Wednesday of every month at American Legion Post 810, 9151 Old Newtown Road. Meetings start at 7:30 p.m. If you are a military veteran who served in a designated combat zone, you are eligible to join the VFW. Call Commander Israel Wolmark at 215-725-0630 if you would like to join the post. ••
Programs at NE Regional
Northeast Regional Library, 2228 Cottman Ave., offers the following recurring programs:
• Crochet Club, Fridays at 11 a.m. in the second-floor Humanities Department. Bring your own materials.
• Mixed Level English Class, Tuesdays and Thursdays, 2-4 p.m. Call 215-685-0522.
• PA CareerLink® Job Search Assistance, Wednesdays, 2 to 4:30 p.m. Call 833-750-5627.
• Chess Club for Adults & Teens, Tuesdays, 4-6 p.m.
• One-on-One Basic Computer Help Appointments, Fridays, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Call 215-685-0525.
• Thursday Computer Help: Various Subjects, Thursdays, 1-2 p.m.
• Gadget Help, Mondays and Wednesdays upon request. Call 215-685-0525.
• Computer Skills for Beginners, Tuesdays, 2-4 p.m. Register at 215-474-1235.
• English Conversation Group – Intermediate-plus, Mondays, 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. Register at 215-474-1235. ••
Cruise to Italy, Greece, Turkey
The Bristol Cultural and Historical Foundation is sponsoring an “Antiquity to Anatolia” cruise, Oct. 29 to Nov. 9, aboard Oceania Cruises’ “Oceania Vista,” sailing from Rome and visiting Cinque Terre, Naples/Pompeii and Taormina (Sicily), Italy; Cephalonia, Katakolon, Athens and Santorini, Greece; and Ephesus and Istanbul, Turkey. Rates per person, including round-trip air from Philadelphia, range from $6,150 to $6,450. For flyers, call 215-788-9408 or go to http://www.bristolhistory.org. ••
Help available for veterans
State Rep. Jared Solomon hosts a veterans clinic at his office at 7104 Frankford Ave. on the second Thursday of the month, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. A representative from American Legion Post 810 assists veterans with benefits. To make an appointment, call 215-543-6755. ••
Bingo at Cannstatter’s
Bingo is played every Thursday at Cannstatter’s, 9130 Academy Road. Doors open at 4:30 p.m. Bingo starts at 6:30. Call 215-322-0121. ••
Buy shopping pass to support charity
The Marlyn Chakov Fein Chapter, Fox Chase Cancer Center is partnering with Boscov’s “Friends Helping Friends” on Wednesday, Oct. 22, from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m., at all Boscov’s locations. The group is selling a shopping pass for $5, which can represent savings of up to 25% off purchases. Call 215-675-6985 to purchase shopping passes. The event supports cancer research and compassionate patient care at Fox Chase Cancer Center. ••
Brunch, entertainment, handbag sale
The Marlyn Chakov Fein Chapter, Fox Chase Cancer Center is hosting a brunch at Bella Tori at the Mansion, 321 S. Bellevue Ave., Langhorne, on Saturday, Nov. 8, starting at 11:30 a.m. The cost is $60 per person and includes salads, cheeses, vegetables, pasta dishes, chicken piccata, quiche, assorted mini desserts and beverages. There will be a cash bar. Entertainment provided by vocalist Calvin Pressley. In addition, there will be a cash-only sale of new and gently used handbags. For tickets, call 215-605-3016 or 215-742-2703. The event supports cancer research and compassionate patient care at Fox Chase Cancer Center. ••
Trip to New York mansion
The Bristol Cultural and Historical Foundation will visit Lyndhurst Mansion, which sits on its own 67-acre park beside the Hudson River in Tarrytown, New York, on Thursday, Dec. 4. A hot buffet luncheon will be served. The all-inclusive cost is $168. Call 215-788-7537 for reservations, which close on Oct. 31. ••
Gone cruisin’
The Bristol Cultural and Historical Foundation is planning to go on two cruises next year.
The group is headed to Bermuda and Charleston, South Carolina from April 30 to May 7, on Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Jewel, sailing from Philadelphia; Rates range from $1,710 to $2,283 per person, double occupancy, and includes the cruise, service gratuities and beverage and dining package gratuities.
There will be a trip to Greece from Aug. 29 to Sept. 7. Rates range from $4,957 to $5,771 per person, double occupancy, and include round-trip airfare from Philadelphia, the cruise, beverages and taxes.
Passports are required. For a flyer, call 215-788-9408. For reservations, call 800-423-0247. ••
Halloween festival
A Halloween festival will take place on Oct. 25 from 1-6 p.m. at Tacony Library, 6742 Torresdale Ave. There will be arts and crafts, yoga, movies, a costume contest, live music, a yard sale, refreshments and a carnival. ••
Bird walks every Monday
Fox Chase Farm, 8500 Pine Road, holds a free weekly bird walk, every Monday from 8:15 to 9:30 a.m. Bring your own binoculars. Email [email protected] ••
Volunteer at Fox Chase Farm
Fox Chase Farm is looking for volunteers. Opportunities include weekend community programs and events, garden and greenhouse support, animal care support, administrative duties during events, general grounds care, weekly and monthly highlights newsletters and farm educational ambassadors. For more information, contact Angela at 215-400-3310, Option 3 or [email protected] ••
St. Jerome Seniors to meet
An upcoming St. Jerome Seniors meeting is on Thursday, Oct. 23, in the school hall, 3031 Stamford St. Arrive by 10 a.m. The meeting begins promptly at 11 a.m. ••
Mike Perzel book signing
Mike Perzel, author of Livin’ It, will have a book sale and signing on Wednesday, Nov. 19, from 5-8 p.m. at Jimmy’s Timeout Sports Pub, 5001 Linden Ave. Anyone who already has a book can bring it to be signed. Books will also be for sale. The book is billed as the “true story of a bad kid from Philly who defies the odds” and chronicles Perzel’s life in Mayfair from age 11-19. The author later became a successful insurance broker, with an office on Frankford Avenue. ••
Clay making at Holmesburg Library
Holmesburg Library, 7810 Frankford Ave., will host a clay-making workshop for school-age children on Monday, Nov. 17, at 4:30 p.m. The event is sponsored by Friends of Holmesburg Library. ••
Recycling buckets, shredding
City Councilman Brian O’Neill will sponsor two upcoming events, both on Saturdays from 9-11 a.m.
Recycling buckets will be given away on Oct. 18 at FOP Lodge 5, 11630 Caroline Road.
Shredding is scheduled for Oct. 25 at American Heritage Credit Union, 432 Rhawn St. ••
Register of Wills at NE Regional
The Register of Wills office will have a pop-up event on Oct. 25 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Northeast Regional Library, 2228 Cottman Ave. The educational session will focus on wills, probate, marriage licenses and records and title clearance (tangled titles). After a brief presentation, staff from the Register of Wills will be available at information tables, at the main lobby, to answer your questions and provide personalized guidance on the services it offers. You can request a marriage record during the event. Bring a $40 money order or cashier’s check, and you’ll be notified when your record is ready for pickup at Northeast Regional. Language support will be available in Spanish, Mandarin Chinese and Portuguese. ••
Apply for scholarships
Children’s Scholarship Fund Philadelphia, a K-8th grade scholarship program, has opened its 2026-27 scholarship lottery application. CSFP is a privately funded program that provides financial access to students from “under-resourced” Philadelphia families, ensuring that they have access to tuition-based schools. The application is open through March 1, 2026, though families are encouraged to apply by the priority deadline on Nov. 15. Children’s Scholarship Fund Philadelphia also offers resources for families, access to school selection support, events hosted at cultural institutions and the opportunity to receive funding to attend summer camps. To be eligible for a CSFP scholarship, families must be residents of Philadelphia with children in kindergarten through 8th grade and meet household income guidelines. Students who are chosen through the lottery will receive a scholarship through 8th grade. Up to three children per family, per year, can receive a scholarship. To learn more about Children’s Scholarship Fund Philadelphia and apply for the 2026-27 scholarship lottery, visit www.csfphiladelphia.org/apply ••
Church anniversary
First Baptist Church of Huntingdon Valley, 2451 Murray Ave. in Huntingdon Valley, will be celebrating its 125th anniversary on Sunday, Nov. 9, at 11 a.m. The Rev. Bruce W. Petty serves as pastor. To RSVP, call 215-947-9341. ••
Hiring law updated
City Councilwoman Rue Landau passed a set of updates to Philadelphia’s Fair Chance Hiring law, first enacted in 2011, which considers job candidates based on their qualifications, not criminal records. Following a hearing in the Committee on Public Safety earlier this year, the legislation received unanimous support from Council.
Currently, more than 300,000 Philadelphians are living with a criminal record.
The ordinance shortens the lookback period for applicants with misdemeanors from 7 to 4 years.
“Philadelphia believes in second chances, and this legislation proves it,” Landau said. “By shortening lookback periods, removing the lowest-level offenses from consideration in alignment with state law and clarifying the process for employers, we are opening doors for thousands of residents who are ready to work and contribute. Employment opportunities are essential for the wellbeing and reintegration of Philadelphians with records, and help create safer, stronger communities. This is good for job seekers, good for businesses and good for Philadelphia’s economy. No one should be defined forever by a single action, and today we are making that promise real.” ••
Job fair at PATH
People Acting To Help will be holding a job fair with walk-in interviews at its headquarters at 1919 Cottman Ave. (at Castor Avenue) on Thursday, Oct. 23, from 3-6 p.m. All potential job applicants for positions at PATH are welcome to attend. PATH is hiring for positions in both its mental health and intellectual disability programs, from entry-level residential to credentialed clinical and program staff. Bring your resumes to assist in the application process. Free parking is available in the PATH lot at Bleigh and Elgin avenues. To learn more about PATH and to see its available positions, visit www.pathcenter.org. ••
Happy anniversary, Bushrod
Bushrod Library, 6304 Castor Ave., will celebrate its 75th anniversary on Monday, Oct. 27, from 4-6 p.m. The public is invited to enjoy fall- and harvest-themed games, crafts, activities, face painting and balloon twisting. ••
Proposed new way to award construction work
The state House voted 191-12 to pass H.B. 1608, legislation introduced by Reps. Ed Neilson, chair of the House Transportation Committee, and James Struzzi. The bill would allow PennDOT and the Turnpike Commission to use Design-Build Best Value procurement to allow these agencies to complete road and bridge projects faster and more efficiently throughout Pennsylvania. Design-Build Best Value procurement is an innovative tool that awards contracts to firms that would provide the “best value” in terms of saving costs and time. Currently, because of a 2011 Commonwealth Court decision, all contract construction work must be completed by the lowest bidder, even if they are the least qualified for the project.
Neilson said, “As the cost of maintaining our vast transportation infrastructure continues to rise, we need to find innovative ways to ensure these projects are completed by the most qualified team and in a timely manner to avoid frustrating drivers with long construction projects. DBBV is used successfully in many states and has shown to speed up construction and reduce costs.”
House Bill 1608 moves to the Senate for consideration. Last session, similar legislation passed the House, 189-14, but it never received a vote in the Senate. ••
Protecting personal information
The state House of Representatives passed legislation authored by Rep. Jared Solomon that would help defend Pennsylvanians’ personal information. The bill (H.B. 997) would require companies and other entities that collect personal information electronically to take reasonable steps to protect that data from hacking. It would also provide people with notice and allow consumers to take civil action to recover damages they sustained due to a breach.
“Our personal information is under constant threat,” Solomon said. “Numerous high-profile breaches in recent years — such as those involving Equifax, Facebook, Target, Sears, Delta and others — have exposed sensitive data like credit card numbers, Social Security numbers and other personal information. It’s clear we must do more to protect the private information of Pennsylvanians from falling into the wrong hands.”
The bill moves to the Senate for consideration. ••
Register of Wills at NE Regional
The Register of Wills office will have a pop-up event on Oct. 25 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Northeast Regional Library, 2228 Cottman Ave. The educational session will focus on wills, probate, marriage licenses and records and title clearance (tangled titles). After a brief presentation, staff from the Register of Wills will be available at information tables, at the main lobby, to answer your questions and provide personalized guidance on the services it offers. You can request a marriage record during the event. Bring a $40 money order or cashier’s check, and you’ll be notified when your record is ready for pickup at Northeast Regional. Language support will be available in Spanish, Mandarin Chinese and Portuguese. ••
Learn about South Asia
An Introduction to South Asia will take place at Northeast Regional Library, 2228 Cottman Ave., on Fridays from 2-4 p.m. from Oct. 31 to Dec. 5. The five-part series centers on South Asia’s history, culture, region, geography, population, religion, literature, economy and politics. The series will be presented by Sugra Bibi, of the University of Pennsylvania. ••
Travel, bird walking programs
Northeast Regional Library will sponsor two events on Wednesday, Oct. 22.
Daniel Seddiqui, Most Traveled Person of America is set for 3:30 p.m. at the library, 2228 Cottman Ave. Seddiqui is an author, keynote speaker and travel entrepreneur. He will share the many life lessons he’s learned from the road.
Fall Migration Bird Walk with Expert Birder, Holger Pflicke, at Pennypack Park ! will take place at 4:45 p.m. Meet in Pennypack Park in the parking lot near Rhawn Street and Holmehurst Avenue. Expert birder Holger Pflicke will lead the walk. ••
Meet the legislators
The Greater Northeast Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce will present Meet the Legislators on Friday, Nov. 21, from 8-10 a.m. at Community College of Philadelphia Northeast Regional Center, 12901 Townsend Road. ••
St. Patrick homecoming Mass
St. Patrick Church, 242 S. 20th St., invites anyone baptized at the church and all former parishioners to a special Mass on Sunday, Oct. 26, at 11 a.m. A reception will follow. RSVP at [email protected]. ••
Apply for LIHEAP starting Nov. 3
State Sen. Tina Tartaglione announced that the 2025-26 Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program season opens on Nov. 3 and will continue through April 10, 2026. Cash grants range from $200 to $1,000, based on region, annual income and number of people living in the home.
Apply at compass.state.pa.us
For more information, call 866-857-7095. ••
Bat Day at Fox Chase Farm
Fox Chase Farm, 8500 Pine Road, will present Discover the Magic of Bat on Saturday, Oct. 25, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. There will be bat education stations, with a chance to build your own bat house. Kids are invited to wear their Halloween costume. A food truck will be on site. ••
Flea market on Oct. 25
Crescentville United Methodist Church, 400 E. Sentner St. (at Hasbrook Avenue), will host an indoor and outdoor flea market on Saturday, Oct. 25, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., rain or shine. Food will be available. No vendor tables are available. Call 215-745-7115. ••
A celebration of life
The Mother Boniface Spirituality Center (3501 Solly Ave.) will host Marigolds and Memory: A Time to Remember, to Heal, and to Celebrate Life on Saturday, Nov. 1, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. It will be a sacred day of reflection, prayer and community in the spirit of Día de los Muertos — a Mexican tradition that honors the lives of those who have gone before us. Participants are invited to bring a photo or small item to place on the communal altar. Mass is being offered at 8 a.m. before the Retreat. The cost is $26, which includes lunch. To register or for more information, call 267-350-1830. ••
